Canadian PAL gun license sharing series part 1 [Canadian gun license classification and steps to obtain a gun license]

Recently I've been preparing to get my gun license, and I've gathered some relevant information for everyone's reference. The full content includes 4 parts:
1. Gun license categories
2. Steps to get a gun license
3. Hunting license
4. Impact on future PR applications

This time I'll share the Canadian gun license categories and the steps to get a gun license:

1. Gun license categories
Canada's gun license is the PAL (Possession and Acquisition License), which is mainly divided into two categories:
1. Non-Restricted PAL
- Used to own and use non-restricted firearms such as shotguns and rifles, typically for hunting, shooting sports, and farm use.
Shotguns: Also known as scatterguns, mostly single-shot, pump-action, or semi-automatic, with larger calibers, such as the Remington 870 (Figure 1).
Rifles: Usually single-shot or bolt-action, designed for long-distance precision shooting, such as the Savage Axis II (Figure 2).

2. Restricted PAL
Under the latest Canadian government ban, some previously legal semi-automatic rifles have been banned. Currently, restricted firearms are basically handguns. (Figure 3: Glock 45)
- Usage scope: Restricted firearms can only be used at authorized shooting ranges.
- Carrying permit: An additional "Authorization to Transport" (ATT) is required.

2. Steps to get a gun license
1. Enroll in the CFSC or CRFSC course
CFSC (Canadian Firearms Safety Course): For non-restricted firearms.
CRFSC (Canadian Restricted Firearms Safety Course): For restricted firearms.
Course content:
- Basic firearm construction and operation.
- Safety rules, including loading/unloading ammunition, storage, and transportation.
- Canadian firearms laws and responsibilities.

2. Take the exam
After the course, you will immediately take a written and practical exam, which includes:
- Written test: Multiple choice questions.
- Practical test: Demonstrate safe firearm handling.
Both written and practical scores must be 80% or higher.

3. Apply for the gun license
After passing the exam, you can submit a gun license application to the RCMP:
- Fill out the form: RCMP Form 5592 (Figure 4)
- Submit materials including two passport-sized photos, identification (such as a student visa or passport copy), and proof of passing the exam.
- Pay the fee: Non-restricted license is about $60. Restricted license is about $80.

4. Background check and approval
- The RCMP will conduct a background check and contact your references.
- Current processing time can take 3-6 months.
Once approved, you can legally purchase, own, and use the corresponding category of firearms.

Friendly reminder
Special notes:
1. Firearms must be stored and transported as required, and it is strongly recommended that roommates do not purchase firearms! Do not purchase firearms! Ensure that gun ownership does not affect your visa status and future immigration.
2. For hunting, in addition to the gun license, you also need to apply for a hunting license, which we will discuss in upcoming posts.